Do I think this is a joke, I'll answer you in the long method, by telling a joke myself:
Teacher: Today we're going to discuss waves. So class, what causes waves?
Derp Student: Rope.
Teacher: NoaaaooDerp Student: Lamp oil.
Teacher: NoaaaooDerp Student: Dinner
Teacher: NoaaaooDerp Student: PENISTeacher: NoaaaooDerp Student: Toast
Teacher: NoaaaooDerp Student: Mashed Potato!
Teacher: NOAHHOAAHAOATeacher: *Throws a grenade and blows Derp Student into Davy Jones locker.*
Yes I think it's a joke. It became a joke as soon as Naruto and the co become friendly with the Nine-Tails. Kishi removed the entire premise of the series. In ONE fell swoop, he turned the entire series on his head. I'd have thought he'd have kept his wits about him and let Saskue walk down the same path as his brother but noooo....Naruto has to make some lame-ass joining combo with the fox, become friends etc. I could deal with grudging respect, but bro-fisting? These are negative emotions incarnate. The only way he'll be re-deemed in my eyes if they betray the humans over again.
Yes it's a joke. And to keep it following...: bananas.